PhD Programme: Social Policy
Completed: 2018
Research focus: In my PhD thesis, I explored why women’s access to top position is not only different to men’s, but why the gender gap in managerial and senior professional jobs also varies between European countries. To understand this variation, I applied multilevel modelling and examined to what extent family policies and labour market institutions have an impact on women’s underrepresentation in top positions.
What has your career path looked like since completing your PhD?
- Senior Research Officer – The Scottish Government (Jun 2018 – Mar 2020)
- Principal Research Officer – The Scottish Government (Mar 2020 – Oct 2022)
- Principal Social Impact Consultant – AECOM (Nov 2022 – May 2024)
- Associate Director for Social Impact Research – AECOM (May 2024 – Present)
What is your current job title?
Associate Director for Social Impact Research AECOM
How would you describe your current role in one sentence?
Associate social impact director at AECOM with strong focus on research and evaluation and commitment to sustainability. Strong expertise in social impact assessments for low-carbon energy generation.
What advice and reflections would you like to share with current students, particularly those considering a transition from a PhD into a non-academic role?
Focus on skills that are in demand – you don’t need to be an expert in everything, but confident to learn new skills and expand on existing skills. Have realistic salary expectations – others without a PhD may have a lot of work experience!
Which skills developed during your PhD do you use in your current role?
- Processing a lot of complex information quickly
- Presentation skills
- Ability to learn new methods
- Finishing a project.